Ben Roethlisberger named AFC Offensive Player of the Week for win over Colts

Ben Roethlisberger being named AFC Offensive Player of the week had odds just slightly lower than the sun rising in the east.

Throwing for franchise records in passing yards (522) and touchdowns (6) while leading a team to 51 points in a big victory tends to merit some individual accolades. It was Roethlisberger's first such award this season, one that vaulted him into consideration among the top statistical passing categories in the NFL, as well as possible MVP consideration.

With the six touchdowns and no interceptions (on a career-high 40 completions), Roethlisberger sits at 16-3 in TDs-to-picks this season and has a passer rating just over 105. The Steelers have won three in a row and four of their last six games through a combination of outstanding play from Roethlisberger and a steadily improving defense.

Roethlisberger benefitted from outstanding contributions by an offensive line that allowed no sacks and only one quarterback hit in 49 passing attempts. He threw two touchdowns each to Antonio Brown and Martavis Bryant, and also found Markus Wheaton (his first career touchdown) and Heath Miller for scores.

Pittsburgh (5-3) hosts Baltimore (5-3) in a pivotal AFC North showdown in Week 9. The game will be broadcast on Sunday Night Football.